Distinguished Postdoctoral Research Associate: The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) seeks applicants for its prestigious Named Distinguished Postdoctoral Research Associate program. This position is an opportunity for early career scientists and engineers with exceptional accomplishments and the potential to contribute to groundbreaking research and technological advancements. Candidates will independently develop research projects that support INL’s core mission focused on solving national challenges in energy, the environment, and security.
Designation:
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Research Areas of Interest
Candidates can come from one or more of the following disciplines:
| Areas | Examples |
|---|---|
| Nuclear Engineering | Reactor design, nuclear materials, advanced energy solutions |
| Engineering Disciplines | Electrical, mechanical, chemical, or environmental engineering |
| Physical Sciences | Chemistry, physics, materials science |
| Computer Science | Machine learning, data science |
| Mathematics | Modeling, simulations, analytics |
| Economics & Policy | Energy markets, economics of energy systems |
| Political Science | Governance of critical infrastructure, public policy |
Location
Idaho Falls, Idaho
Eligibility/Qualifications
To qualify for this position:
- Doctoral Degree: Ph.D. in a discipline central to INL’s mission. Degree must be awarded within the last five years and prior to the appointment.
- Record of Excellence: Demonstrated scientific excellence through research publications, patents, or related accomplishments.
- Independent Research Proposal: Candidates require an original proposal for an independent research project.
- Sponsorship: Must secure sponsorship and a letter of recommendation from an INL department before applying.
Job Description
- Develop and conduct independent research supporting INL’s objectives in clean energy, nuclear energy, and critical infrastructure security.
- Collaborate with INL leaders, scientists, and engineers to advance state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies.
- Access resources, mentorship, and career-enhancing opportunities provided by the laboratory.
- Present research findings at conferences and contribute articles to peer-reviewed journals.
- Commitment is for up to two years, with a possible one-year extension.
Compensation:
- Salary: $114,600 annually.
- Includes competitive benefits, such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, and comprehensive relocation assistance.
Work Type: Full-time on-site worker.
Application Process (How to Apply)
To apply, candidates must submit:
- Letter of Interest: Highlighting long-term career goals, availability dates, and relevant disciplinary strengths. (Max 2 pages, single-sided)
- Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Unofficial Transcripts
- Abstract of Doctoral Dissertation
- Research Proposal: Summary of research hypothesis, methods, theoretical framework, key resources, and schedule (Max 2 pages, single-sided).
- Letters of Recommendation:
- One from an INL sponsor.
- Two additional recommendation letters (preferably one from your Ph.D. advisor).
Important Notes:
- All applications must be submitted online via INL Careers.
- Materials not meeting the submission requirements may result in ineligibility.
Application Deadline
- Opens: August 4, 2025
- Closes: November 12, 2025
Finalists may be required to provide additional information.
Why Work at INL?
Idaho National Laboratory is one of the nation’s premier facilities for applied energy research and development. Over seven decades, INL has been at the forefront of solving energy, security, and environmental challenges. Join a vibrant team of 6,300+ scientists, researchers, and engineers working on projects that shape the future of energy and critical infrastructure globally.
Equal Employment Opportunity: INL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
For additional information or assistance identifying sponsors, contact:
- Thomas Steele (Thomas.Steele@inl.gov)
- Kylee Lindor (Kylee.Lindor@inl.gov)
- INL Postdoc Office (Postdocoffice@inl.gov)
This is an excellent opportunity for ambitious early-career researchers to gain visibility, contribute independently to impactful research, and work alongside some of the brightest minds at INL.
